Home Modifications for Older People: Staying Safe at Home in Adelaide

Most older Australians want to keep living in their own home for as long as possible. A few well-chosen home modifications can make that safer and easier, whether it’s a grab rail beside the toilet, a ramp at the front door or a step-free shower.

This guide covers the most useful home modifications for older people, how to know what you need, how to fund them and how NovitaTech can help in Adelaide.

Why home modifications matter

Falls are one of the biggest risks to independence as we get older. Research suggests around one in three Australians aged 65 and over has a fall each year, and many happen at home. Simple changes can help reduce the risk, make everyday tasks easier and give families peace of mind.

The most useful home modifications for older people

1. Grab rails

Grab rails beside the toilet, in the shower and near steps give you something secure to hold when sitting, standing or stepping. They’re one of the simplest and most effective changes you can make. See our range of grab rails.

2. Ramps and step modifications

Steps at entrances and between rooms are a common trip hazard. Portable, threshold and permanent ramps can make getting in and out easier, especially with a walker or wheelchair.

3. Bathroom modifications

The bathroom is where many falls happen. Useful changes include step-free showers, hand-held shower heads, slip-resistant flooring, raised toilet seats and shower chairs and toileting aids.

4. Slip-resistant flooring and better lighting

Slippery floors, loose rugs and dark hallways all add to the risk of a fall. Slip-resistant surfaces and night lighting make moving around at night safer.

5. Doorway widening

If you use a walker, wheelchair or scooter, wider doorways make it much easier to move between rooms.

6. Falls alerts and sensors

Not every change is structural. Bed and chair sensors and falls alerts can let family or carers know if help is needed.

How do I know what I need?

An occupational therapist (OT) can visit your home, look at how you move around and recommend the changes that will make the biggest difference. For larger modifications and for most funding, an OT assessment is usually required.

You can also visit our Hindmarsh showroom to see bathroom and bedroom equipment set up and talk to our team about what might suit your home.

Minor vs major home modifications

How to fund home modifications

• Support at Home: the Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) scheme can fund approved home modifications. Read our Support at Home AT-HM guide.
• CHSP: the Commonwealth Home Support Programme can help with some minor home modifications.
• NDIS: if you’re an NDIS participant, home modifications may be funded in your plan.
• Private: we can provide a quote for any job.

Home modifications with NovitaTech

Our home modifications service works across Adelaide and South Australia. We follow your OT’s recommendations, handle the quotes your funder needs and look after the work from start to finish. Explore our full range of aged care equipment and services.

Frequently asked questions

How much do home modifications cost?

It depends on the job. A grab rail may cost a few hundred dollars installed, while a full bathroom modification costs much more. We provide a written quote before any work starts.

Do I need an OT assessment?

For simple items you may not, but most funders need an OT assessment for home modifications, and it helps make sure you get the right changes.

Can you modify a rental property?

Often, yes, with the owner’s permission. Portable options like freestanding rails and removable ramps can also help.

How long does it take?

Minor modifications can often be done quickly once approved. Major works depend on design, approvals and builder availability, and we’ll give you a timeline with your quote.

This article is general information only. Speak to a health professional about your individual needs.